Actor Michael Jace appears in Los Angeles Court for an arraignment on May 22, 2014, in Los Angeles.David McNew-PoolGetty Images

Actor Michael Jace was sentenced Friday to 40 years to life in prison for the fatal shooting of his wife, April Jace, in April 2014, People magazine reports.

Jace is best known for his role as Julien Lowe, the straight-shooting officer struggling with his sexuality, in FX’s highly acclaimed series The Shield.

The 53-year-old actor shot his wife to death in their Los Angeles home in front of the couple’s two young sons, ages 5 and 8, allegedly because April Jace wanted out of their marriage. After the incident, Michael Jace called 911 and told the operator he shot his wife.

He was found guilty of second-degree murder after a weeklong trial last month.

People reports that during the sentencing, Jace tearfully told his wife’s family, “There is absolutely no justification for my actions on that night,” but maintained that his actions were not premeditated. “I am profoundly sorry for the pain that I've caused everyone.”